Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of May 1-5, 2023

During the week of May 1-5, 2023 -- the following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Thursday, May 4th at 7pm to be held in Wells Council Chambers and via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel - Meetings as noted below, all in Quesnel Council Chambers

1) Regular Council Meeting on May 2nd at 6pm.  On the Agenda:

* Committee Reports

* Report on previous Regional District Board meeting in Williams Lake

* Temporary Use Permit (Icon Homes - Highway 97 North)

* Bridge Financing application - Royal Canadian Legion Branch 94 Dock Project (Dragon Lake)

* 6 Bylaws for Adoption

The full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

2) Special Council (In-Camera) Meeting - to follow adjournment of the Open Council meeting on May 2nd.  The meeting is closed to the public under Section 90(1L - strategic planning) of the Community Charter.  View the closed meeting notice here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on May 2nd at 6pm in WL Council Chambers and will be livestreamed via YouTube

On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- 

i) Penny Stavast, CMHA Cariboo-Chilcotin Anti-Violence Programs Director re "Victims and Survivors of Crime Week" Proclamation & Opening of Williams Lake Sexual Assault and Community-Based Victim Services Centre; 

ii) Erin Hitchcock & Denise Deschene, Scout Island Nature Centre and Streets for All Williams Lake re "GoByBike Week" Proclamation and Politician on a Pedal Challenge; 

iii) Violet Fuller, Executive Director - Yeqox Nilin Justice Society re 2023 Late Grant-in-Aid Application for Indigenous Court Anniversary Event and 

iv) Kristin Giannotti, MNP Chartered Professional Accountants re City of Williams Lake 2022 Audited Financial Statements & Auditor's Report  

Business:

* BC Transit 2023/2024 Annual Operating Agreement

* Bike Bridge in WL River Valley - Budget Update

* Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment Bylaw No. 2392 - Removes Properties

 

* OCP/Zoning Amendment Applications for property at  1138 Lakeview Crescent

* Committee and Committee of the Whole Recommendations for consideration of endorsement

* 4 Bylaws for consideration of Adoption

The full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Cariboo Regional District -- 

1) South Cariboo sub-regional meetings in 100 Mile House Council Chambers

a) South Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - May 1st at 11:00am.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: MOTI Staff/Dawson Road Maintenance re: Road Projects in South Cariboo

View the full Agenda here

b) South Cariboo Joint Committee - May 1st at 12pm.  On the Agenda:

* Annual Report from the 100 Mile House Curling Club

* In-Camera Meeting: Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting on May 5th at 9:30am in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Cariboo RD Auditor re: 2022 Audited Financial Statements of CCRHD 

* Request by the SCHF for a Foundation Partnership Grant to Fund a Morgue Lift and Racking System 

* In-Camera Session: Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full meeting agenda here

3) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting on May 5th, following recess of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Meeting in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: CRD Auditor re: Cariboo Regional District 2022 Audited Financial Statements

* Land Use Matters (Electoral Area Directors only)

* "Growing Communities Fund" request for Benjamin Water System (Area A) 

*  Solid Waste Management request for Budget Amendment to Purchase a Field Service Vehicle.

* 3 Year Round Grant For Assistance applications

* Adoption of 2022-26 Cariboo RD Strategic Plan

* Consent Calendar

* Committee Recommendations

* CRD Director Remuneration Bylaw - for 3 Readings/Adoption (increase base remuneration for Area Directors' to $28,900) 

View the full Agenda here 

High Streamflow Advisory issued for BC Interior

Courtesy of the BC River Forecast Centre:

High Streamflow Advisory – B.C. Interior

Issued: 2:15 PM April 26, 2023

The River Forecast Centre is issuing a High Streamflow Advisory for the B.C. Interior including:

• Upper Fraser including plateau areas around Prince George (including Chilako River, Chuchinka River, Salmon River and surrounding areas)
• Middle Fraser including plateau areas around Quesnel and Williams Lake (including Nazko River, West Road River, Baker Creek, Cottonwood River, San Jose River and surrounding areas)
• South Interior including Lower Thompson, Salmon River and Okanagan (including Cache Creek and surrounding areas)

Weather Synopsis:

A strong upper ridge is forecast to build across B.C. on Thursday and into the weekend. Temperatures are expected to rise to well above normal (+10°C above normal), with temperatures by Saturday reaching up to 23°C in northern areas (Prince George) and 27°C in the Okanagan (Kelowna). Temperatures are forecast to remain high on Sunday, and ease slightly into next week. A low-pressure trough may bring precipitation to the region next week.

River Conditions:

In most of the higher elevation terrain across the province, the snowpack has not ripened and much of the energy associated with the upcoming warming is expected to be absorbed into snow ripening. At mid-elevations (approximately 900-1500m) snowpacks have ripened and are expected to respond with sharp rises in snowmelt rates over the weekend.
River responses will be variable across the region, with watersheds containing a high degree of mid-elevation terrain expected to have the most significant increase in river levels over the weekend. This includes rivers such as the Salmon River (near Prince George), Chuchinka River, Chilako River, Cottonwood River, Baker Creek, Nazko River, West Road (Blackwater) River, San Jose River, Bridge Creek, Cache Creek, Bonaparte River, Guichon Creek, Salmon River (near Falkland and Salmon Arm), Whiteman Creek, Inkaneep Creek, and similar creeks and rivers across the region. Extremely high flows, including potential flooding, is possible over the weekend in these areas.

The public is advised:

River levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly. Being near these riverbanks, creeks and fast-flowing bodies of water is dangerous:

• Stay clear of fast-flowing rivers and potentially unstable riverbanks
• Avoid recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating or hiking near high streamflow rivers or streams
• Remember, high streamflow can easily trap strong swimmers, increasing risk of drowning

During a High Streamflow Advisory, conditions can change quickly. Understand the risks and get prepared by visiting www.PreparedBC/floods

The River Forecast Centre continues to monitor the conditions and will provide updates as conditions warrant.

BC River Forecast Centre

Ministry of Forests

Annual Williams Lake Bike Rodeo Ready to Ride on Sunday, May 7

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The wheels are in motion for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex’s annual Bike Rodeo for 2023.

The always popular event is geared toward children of all ages who can ride tricycles or bicycles and will take place on Sunday, May 7 in the large back parking lot at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. The Bike Rodeo is aimed at promoting safe bicycling habits to reduce riding accidents involving youth.

“It’s always an incredibly fun and educational day,” says Emma Davidson, Child and Youth Recreation Coordinator. “Bring a bike and a helmet, and come ready to ride. Once again we’ve partnered with several great local organizations and volunteers to make the Bike Rodeo a fun and action-packed event, and also an opportunity for youth in our community to learn critical bike skills.”

At the event, a series of stations will provide participants an opportunity to learn correct riding skills and techniques. The emphasis for riders is to learn how to control their bicycle. Some stations will teach and enforce proper hand signalling and traffic safety skills, while others will focus on safely stopping, turning, trail etiquette and more. One of the stations will include a safety inspection on participants’ bikes and equipment, including a ‘Learn Your Bike Parts’ game.

The Safe Kids Canada website states that “children suffer injuries doing wheeled activities because of a combination of factors that most commonly include inexperience, loss of control, lack of traffic safety skills, high speed and the tendency to attempt stunts.”

The CMRC is partnering with several local organizations to host the Bike Rodeo: KidSport, Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin, BGC Williams Lake Club, Royal Purple, Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society and its Bikes for All program, Streets for All Williams Lake, Red Shred’s Bike and Board Shed and the Williams Lake Cycling Club.

The CCCS Bikes for All project aims to recycle gently used bicycles, offering them at no cost to residents. Anyone in need of a bicycle can contact the CCCS by calling 250-398-7929 or emailing coordinator@conservationsociety.ca.

While registration for the Bike Rodeo is free, space is limited. Participants are asked to preregister to secure one of six following available time slots from 10 am to 1 pm: 10 to 10:30 am, 10:30 to 11 am, 11 to 11:30 am, 11:30 to noon, noon to 12:30 pm or 12:30 to 1 pm. Registration is at www.williamslake.ca/programregistration.

“Rider and bike safety is the theme but, ultimately, we want the Bike Rodeo to be all about fun, getting children active and outdoors, and helping them to enjoy this great opportunity we have to recreate on bikes in and around Williams Lake,” Davidson says.

For more information contact Emma Davidson at edavidson@williamslake.ca or call the CMRC front desk at 250-398-7665.

Strong winds forecasted across Cariboo Fire Centre - April 26th, 2023

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service is urging members of the public and industry personnel to exercise extreme caution when conducting any outdoor burning and consider postponing burning until a calmer day. Surface winds of 30 to 40 kilometres an hour with gusts of 60 to 70 kilometres an hour are forecasted across the Cariboo Fire Centre for April 26, 2023.

 

Currently, there are no open fire prohibitions in effect in the Cariboo Fire Centre. Those conducting any open fire should use caution and be aware of local conditions that might impact their ability to burn safely and control their open fires. Before lighting a fire, please check with your local authority, ensure you are properly prepared, aware of the conditions, and follow open burning regulations:

 

• Establish a fuel break around your Category 2 or Category 3 burn and ensure the fire site is away from buildings, trees, and other combustible materials.
• Ensure someone is always monitoring the fire so it doesn't spread beyond its intended size.
• Ensure that sufficient tools and water are on site to control the fire.
• Anyone who lights an open fire must also comply with B.C.'s air quality control legislation and follow the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulations. Check the local venting index by calling 1 888 281-2992 or visiting: l https://envistaweb.env.gov.bc.ca/aqo/files/bulletin/venting.html
• Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
• Anyone lighting a Category 3 open fire must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1 888 797-1717.

Human-caused wildfires are completely preventable and divert critical resources away from naturally caused fires. Always practice safe, responsible open fire use.

 

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.

 

You can follow the latest wildfire news:

 

• on the free BC Wildfire Service public mobile app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
• on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• on Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

BC Education Week 2023 (April 23-27, 2023)

Statement from the Hon. Rachna Singh - BC's Minister of Education and Child Care:

“For over three and a half decades, B.C. has joined together with other provinces to proclaim this week and celebrate and recognize the remarkable achievements and work happening in school districts throughout the province.

“Education Week provides an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of teachers, principals and vice-principals, superintendents, education leaders, school district staff, trustees, as well as students and families, to support educational excellence and student achievement. From April 23-27,we are proclaiming Education Week in B.C. this year.

“The Province is committed to supporting school districts to ensure we provide students the tools needed to succeed through their school years and beyond. We are working hard to make quality, inclusive education available for all students in British Columbia.  

“This past April, we launched the Province’s new Feeding Futures fund. Over the next three years, school districts will have $214 million to spend on creating or expanding local school food programs throughout B.C. As the Province’s largest investment in school food programs, the funds will be used for purchasing food and hiring dedicated staff to co-ordinate meals and snacks for students who need it the most.

“But we know this is just a part of our path forward to making sure students can learn and thrive. When attending school, all students need to feel like they can be their true selves. Empowering students and educators to identify and take action against racism and discrimination in British Columbia schools is the aim of a new provincial K-12 Anti-Racism Action Plan, launched this past January.

“The plan will create change in B.C. schools by raising awareness and creating resources to improve the school experience for racialized students, staff and families so that everyone feels a strong sense of belonging.

“Our sexual orientation and gender identity inclusive education in B.C. schools also aims to support the well-being of all our students and staff. By helping students understand and respect their differences, sexual orientation and gender identity inclusive education helps to create schools that are more welcoming and provide greater acceptance for everyone. We know this work happens on the ground with a strong network of advocates and partners in our schools all throughout the year.

“In order for students to thrive, parents and caregivers need support so they can succeed, too, and that’s why we’re building and upgrading the schools, kids, families and staff need. This also means prioritizing child care, with nearly 10,000 new spaces funded on school grounds.

“We’re so grateful for all the hard work that happens in B.C. classrooms every day from all our K-12 staff. B.C. has a world-class education system and we’re proud to support schools as we work together to help B.C. students reach their full potential.

“Our government is committed to supporting the next generation of learners and preparing them for today’s fast-paced world. If we all continue to work together, we can build a province for British Columbians to enjoy for many years to come.”

Golden Buckle Hunt Returns for Third Year

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex’s wildly popular Golden Buckle Hunt is coming back for a third installment this May.

Created with the goal of encouraging residents to get outdoors to explore the region’s vast array of hiking and riding trails in and around Williams Lake, last year’s Golden Buckle Hunt boasted hundreds of participants and upwards of 250 submissions entered into the grand prize draw.

“It’s continued to grow year after year and we are excited to once again offer the weekly Golden Buckle Hunt as a fun option for people to take part in as we move into some warmer weather this spring,” said Kaitlyn Atkinson, Manager of Recreation and Leisure Services. “The positive response we’ve seen in both previous years has been amazing, and it’s something we are all looking forward to being able to offer as a fun, family activity and contest to residents.”

For four weeks throughout the month of May, the ‘Golden Buckle’ will be hidden somewhere on a trail or hiking destination in Williams Lake.

Participants are tasked with keeping an eye on the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex’s social media channels – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – for a clue to the Golden Buckle’s hidden location each Friday starting this week and throughout the month of May. Once per week a new location and clue will be posted.

Once the buckle has been found, participants are asked to take a photograph with the buckle at its hidden location and email it to recreation@williamslake.ca to be entered into a grand prize draw. Throughout the contest and at the end of each week, photos will be shared on social media.

“The hunt will help participants discover new trails or hikes around Williams Lake,” Atkinson says. “We hope it can be a fun way to get people outside and moving this spring, as well as maybe introduce residents to some new locations, sights and views.”

Stay tuned to the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex’s social media channels for the first clue, launching this Friday evening, April 28. Subsequent clues will follow on May 5, May 12 and May 19.

For more information, or to keep tabs on the Golden Buckle Hunt visit us on Facebook at @CMRCWL, Twitter at @CMRCWL, Instagram at @recreation_williams_lake or call us at 250-398-7665.

Prescribed burn planned for Tŝideldel

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service in partnership with Tŝideldel First Nation will be conducting a series of prescribed burns 188 kilometres west of Williams Lake within the community of Tŝideldel. The total area to be burned is 119 hectares, divided into parcels located on the north and south side of Highway 20 - near Alexis Creek.

The goal of this prescribed burn is to reduce wildfire risk by eliminating fuels. This will create a fuel break between the community and the surrounding grasslands and promote the growth of native grasses.

Burning will take place between April 25, 2023 and May 5, 2023. Burning will be dependent on weather, site and venting conditions to allow for quick smoke dissipation. Smoke and flames will be visible in the area, with firefighters closely monitoring the fire activity at all times.

Prescribed fire is often used to help protect communities and infrastructure in the wildland-urban interface, where developed areas border on forests or grasslands. The removal of fine fuels helps slow the spread of wildfires and is an opportunity for BC Wildfire Service staff to work with the community of Tŝideldel.

Learn More

A factsheet about prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration burns is available online: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/vegetation-and-fuel-management/prescribed-burning

Canada/BC Hydro invest in decarbonization projects in BC

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Today, the Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard; the Honourable Josie Osborne, B.C. Minister of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation; and Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro, announced a joint investment of $32.7 million to support three decarbonization projects in British Columbia.

In Vancouver, this investment will support the decarbonization of the Creative Energy district energy steam plant. Existing gas boilers will be replaced with new electric steam boilers, and a 1.2km long underground powerline will be built from BC Hydro’s Murrin substation to the Beatty Street plant. Powered by clean energy delivered through the new connection to BC Hydro’s electricity grid, this investment will enable a significant reduction of the facility’s CO2 emissions and provide sufficient low-carbon energy for 12 million square feet of new commercial and residential development.

In Princeton, this funding will support the electrification of mine haul trucks at Copper Mountain Mine using a trolley assist system, and the replacement of several diesel-powered water pumps at the mine site with electrically-powered pumps. This project will reduce the mine’s CO2 emissions by 9,400 tonnes annually. Copper is a critical component of electric vehicles and clean energy technologies like wind and solar. The mining sector and the thousands of workers it employs in British Columbia and across the country will play a key role in building Canada’s green economy.

In the Cariboo Regional District, this funding will go towards fully electrifying all underground mine equipment at the proposed Cariboo Gold Project, a new underground gold mine and processing plant under development, and connect an existing substation to BC Hydro’s electricity grid, located near Wells BC. This investment will reduce the facilities’ CO2 emission by 22,700 tonnes annually.

Once completed, the two projects will help the mines to transition to cleaner energy sources and reduce emissions.

With 98% clean electricity, low-carbon electrification is a key part of the CleanBC plan to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and move British Columbia toward a clean energy future.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

New affordable homes for Indigenous people in Quesnel open

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Twenty-six new affordable rental homes are now open for Indigenous Elders, couples and people living with disabilities in Quesnel.

The Province, through BC Housing, partnered with the Dakelh & Quesnel Community Housing Society (DQCHS) to build Stepping Stone, a three-storey building at 109 Bowron Ave. The building consists of 26 one-bedroom units, including three accessible and 14 adaptable homes.

“The opening of Stepping Stone is exceptional news, as it will help more Indigenous people in Quesnel live affordably, close to family, community and culture,” said the Hon. Ravi Kahlon, BC Minister of Housing. “Our government will continue to work with Indigenous housing organizations like the Dakelh & Quesnel Community Housing Society to make sure more Indigenous people have access to housing that meets their needs in communities throughout B.C.”

Stepping Stone, operated by DQCHS, includes culturally specific amenities, such as an Indigenous food storage area, along with other common spaces such as shared laundry and amenity rooms. Residents started moving into their new homes in January 2023.

“Dakelh & Quesnel Community Housing Society is very excited to have opened Stepping Stone,” said Luanne Ruotsalainen, executive director, DQCHS. “We offer supports to our tenants so they can continue to live a clean and sober lifestyle. There is also Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous groups run out of the building to further support tenants.”

The Province, through BC Housing, provided a $5.5-million grant from the Building BC: Indigenous Housing Fund for the project, and will provide approximately $347,000 in annual operating funding. DQCHS providing equity and the land for the project, totalling approximately $639,000.

“These housing units will help families not only have the shelter they need to heal and thrive, they also help provide culturally supportive community connections that are critically needed for Indigenous people living in urban and rural parts of BC,” said Margaret Pfoh, CEO, Aboriginal Housing Management Association. “The impact that safe, affordable, trauma-informed housing can have on community well-being and individual wellness can’t be underestimated. Housing is a key component to ending cycles of poverty that have been left unaddressed for far too long.”

The project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has delivered more than 74,000 new homes that have been completed or are underway, including 122 homes in Quesnel.

Learn More:

To learn more about government’s new Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: https://www.bchousing.org/homes-for-BC

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/

WLFN/Williams Lake City Council holds "Council-to-Council Meeting"

Courtesy of Williams Lake First Nation Facebook page:

Yesterday marked the first "Council-to-Council" meeting between Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) and the City of Williams Lake since the current Williams Lake Mayor and Council took office last November 2022

Referring to ongoing and future collaborations between WLFN and the City, Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars remarks: “Working together and standing together is how we’re going to change the narrative of our region. We’re thankful to the City of Williams Lake and their willingness to champion the territory with the Williams Lake First Nation.” 

Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor adds: 

 “I would like to thank Chief Sellars and WLFN Council for meeting with City of Williams Lake Council to discuss ways we can work together for the betterment of our communities. This was the first official meeting between our Councils since the last election, and we are impressed with the strong leadership shown by WLFN Chief and Council. We are excited by the many opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to continuing to communicate and collaborate.” 

WLFN Council and City of Williams Lake Council plan to meet regularly to continue to move forward together

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of April 24-28, 2023

During the week of April 24-28, 2023 -- the following local governments or Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be meeting, as follows:

Quesnel - all meetings noted below on Tuesday, April 25th to be held in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St.)

1) 9am on April 25th -- Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee.  On the Agenda:

* DRAFT 2022 Audited Financial Statements

* Permissive Tax Exemptions

* 2023 Municipal Tax Rates Bylaw

* Closed Committee Meeting - Sec. 90(2b - confidential negotiations between City of Quesnel, provincial or federal governments or a 3rd Party) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) 6pm on April 25th -- Public Hearing to hear from the public with regards to City of Quesnel Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 1942, 2023 and City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1943, 2023.  The full Public Hearing Agenda can be viewed here

3) Upon Adjournment of the Public Hearing on April 25th -- Regular Quesnel Council Meeting. On the Agenda:

* Presentation: DRAFT 2022 City of Quesnel Audited Financial Statements

* Committee Reports

* Annual Budget/Tax Rates Bylaws for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* City of Quesnel Growing Communities Reserve Fund Bylaw 1945, 2023 

* City of Quesnel Fire Protection, Prevention and Emergency Services Amendment Bylaw 1946, 2023 - First, Second & Third Readings 

* 2022 Statement of Financial Information - for Approval/submit to BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs 

* Quesnel Business Improvement Area Levies for year 2023 

* Requests for Letters' of Support -- Cariboo Ski Touring Club/Community Futures North Cariboo

View the full Meeting Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, April 25th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom in Williams Lake (350 2nd Avenue). On the Agenda:

Presentations -- CCTA (Cariboo-Chilcotin Teachers' Association)– Member Survey Review and Careers Department – RCMP Academy

* Reports of the Superintendent and Secretary-Treasurer

* Reports from Committees' - for endorsement of the Board

* Reports from Trustees Delainey/Forbes

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake -- Committee of the Whole Session on Tuesday, April 25th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom.  Meeting will NOT be livestreamed, via YouTube

On the Agenda:

* Homeless Encampments in Williams Lake - Direction to Staff on next steps

* Continuing discussions on a Code of Conduct for Williams Lake City Council 

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

Williams Lake City Council moves toward adoption of the City's 2023-27 Financial Plan and 2023 Tax Rate Bylaws

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

At a special meeting of Council on April 19, 2023, Council gave three readings to the 2023-2027 Financial Plan Bylaw and the 2023 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw.

Despite the City’s operational budget increasing from $27 million to $29 million to maintain core and current service levels, the overall budget was reduced to $45.9 million, a decrease from $46.9 million in 2022. This is a balanced budget that reflects a reduction in capital expenditures, noted Vitali Kozubenko, Chief Financial Officer.

Council lowered the municipal property tax mill rate by 4%; however, based on variations from BC Assessment, taxpayers will see an overall average 6.6% municipal tax increase across all property classes (down from 9% overall in 2022). The residential sector will see an increase of 11.8% (down from a 12.8% increase 2022). For example, the average home assessment in Williams Lake is $367,000, resulting in a $195 increase in municipal property tax per year.

The residential property class accounts for 46.2% of tax revenue. The total assessment of all property in Williams Lake for 2023 is $1,834,032,273. Property taxes account for 53% of the City’s general revenue, followed by service fees and charges (23%), grants (16%), transfers from own reserves (4%) and transfers from other City funds (4%).

Highlights from the $15,776,616 capital budget include:

• General capital projects total $7,874,528 including annual paving rehab and saddle replacement ($1,535,000), street light LED upgrade ($116,000), Wildfire Risk Reduction Fuel Treatment within Williams Lake ($349,093) and a new RC Cotton Boat Launch ($120,000)
• Airport capital projects total $1,851,506 including updating the Airport Utility Master Plan ($125,000) and security gate upgrades ($60,000)
• Water capital projects total $2,836,053 including Well #6 replacement ($1,961,870), sanitary bio-solid removal ($398,820) and Wastewater Treatment Plant and Lagoons Assessment ($150,000)

Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said he was pleased with the democratic, transparent process and discussion that took place this week during the Regular Council Meeting on April 18.

“I would like to thank members of the public who took time to attend the meetings and to share their input with Council,” Rathor said. “We have a responsible and proactive plan, which positions the City to be in good financial shape in the future. After much consideration, Council decided to defer as few projects as possible in order to carry out critical infrastructure work, which mitigates rising costs of these essential projects.”

Rathor also thanked City staff for their diligent work on the budget and financial plan, as well as fellow Council members for their valued input.

The Financial Plan Bylaw and the Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw will both be considered for adoption at the Tuesday, May 2 Regular Council Meeting.

Special WL Council Meeting - April 19th, 2023

Present in the Rick Hansen Boardroom -- Mayor Rathor; Councillors Delainey and Lyons

Present via Zoom -- Councillors Boehm, Flaspohler, Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 5:35pm

Meeting Agenda adopted

Business:

1) 2023-2027 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2388, 2023

Item presented

Discussion ensued thereon

Council gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings to City of Williams Lake 2023-2027 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2388, 2023

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillors Boehm and Nelson

2) 2023 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2389, 2023

Item presented

Discussion ensued thereon

Council gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings to City of Williams Lake 2023 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2389, 2023

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillors Boehm and Nelson

Bylaws #2388/2389, 2023 will be brought forward for Adoption at the May 2nd Regular Council Meeting

Council adjourned at 5:45pm

Prescribed Burns occuring at WL Community Forest/Batnuni Lake

From the BC Wildfire Service:

Upcoming Prescribed Burns

1) WL Community Forest (Cariboo RD Area "E")

The BC Wildfire Service will be working in partnership with Williams Lake Community Forest and Williams Lake First Nation, conducting a prescribed burn approximately 10 kilometres west of Williams Lake beside the Fraser River.

 

The prescribed burn will cover approximately 75 hectares within the Williams Lake Community Forest. Smoke may be visible from Williams Lake and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling on Highway 20.

 

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, beginning as early as April 21, 2023 and continue periodically until May 5, 2023. Burning will proceed only if desired on site conditions are met and allow for quick smoke dissipation.

 

This burn is a follow up of a spacing treatment to reduce stand density with the outcome of a more open and fire resilient forest. The objective of this low-to-moderate intensity surface fire is to consume slashed fuel and promote the growth of local plant species.

 

BC Wildfire Service staff will be working with Williams Lake First Nation to carefully prepare, control, and monitor the fire at all times.

2) Batnuni Lake (west of Quesnel - Cariboo RD Area "B")

The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting the Range Branch to conduct a 27 hectare ecosystem restoration burn approximately 9 kilometres northwest of Batnuni Lake, near Neewa Creek.

 

The goal of this ecosystem restoration burn include restoration of open grassland ecosystems by reducing encroachment by aspen trees and improving the availability of grassland forage for future wildlife and cattle grazing.

 

Preparation for this prescribed burn may begin as early as Friday, April 21, 2023 and will continue periodically until Thursday, May 5, 2023. The exact timing of the burn will be dependent on weather, site, and venting conditions. Ignition will proceed only if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation.

 

Smoke from this prescribed burn will be highly visible from the community of Titetown, and to motorists travelling along Batnuni Road.

Cariboo RD Emergency Preparedness Committee Highlights - April 19th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Pare and De Vries

Guest: Williams Lake City Councillor Joan Flaspohler

The Chair called the meeting to order at 10:00am and recognized the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Williams Lake City Councillor Joan Flaspohler to the Committee meeting today

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the Committee meeting held January 25th, 2023 were received/adopted

Business:

1) EOC Reporting - 1st Quarter 2023

A report from the Mgr. of Emergency Program Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon .. 

Resolved: That the report be received

2) 2023 UBCM CEPF Evacuation Route Planning Application

A report from the Mgr. of Emergency Program Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon .. 

Resolved: That the Cariboo Regional District Board submit an application for the 2023 UBCM CEPF Evacuation Route Planning for 108 Mile Ranch and area in Electoral Area "G"

3) Emergency Program Act Modernization Update

A report from the Mgr. of Emergency Program Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon .. 

Resolved: That the report be received

There being no further business - the Committee adjourned at 11:32am

WL Council Highlights - April 18th mtg

Present: Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Flaspohler, Lyons, Nelson and Moses

Meeting called to order at 6:15pm, following the Public Hearing on Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2385, 2023 (Accessory Dwelling Units) 

Meeting Agenda here/Meeting Video here

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting Agenda approved 

Minutes of the City Council meeting held on April 4th, 2023 were received/adopted

Matters Arising from Public Hearing:

1) Council gave 3rd Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2385, 2023 (Accessory Dwelling Units).  The bylaw will now be forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure for approval, as per Section 52 of the Transportation Act

Delegations - None

Business:

1) Council considered and approved recommendations from the April 11th, 2023 Committee of the Whole as follows:

i)  That the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated April 6, 2023 regarding additional information needed for a request for additional resources to enhance Indigenous relations and reconciliation be received for information and Council direct staff to proceed with Option 3 - Hybrid Position Combining Active Transportation / Climate Change / Indigenous Relations, and this item be included in the 2023 budget.

ii) That the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated April 5, 2023 be received and Council directed staff to finalize the financial plan, minus the following changes:

* 4th Avenue Paving Project being removed from the 2023 capital budget ($680,000)

 

and move forward with the budget as presented/amended, including the use of City reserves and the mil rate be reduced by 8% across all property classes and further, that staff be directed to prepare revised 2023-2027 five-year financial plan bylaw and the 2023 tax rate bylaw for first three readings at a Special Council Meeting to be held April 19th at 5:30pm; public notice be waived and more than two Council members be permitted to attend via Zoom

Meeting recessed at 9:08pm

Meeting resumed at 9:13pm

2) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to:

i) City of Williams Lake Growing Community Reserve Fund Establishment Bylaw No. 2390, 2023” and that Council approve using all the Growing Community Reserve funds toward the City’s portion of planning and construction for the Water Treatment Plant project.

3) Council authorized awarding of the curbside Waste and Recyclables Collection contract to Environmental 360 Solutions (Alberta) Ltd. for a three year term at their proposed annual price of $591,861.26, plus applicable taxes

4) Council received information regarding the Accessible British Columbia Act and approved the recommended amendments to the City of Williams Lake Accessibility Advisory Committee Terms of Reference in order to comply with the Act

5) Council adopted the following Planning Bylaws:

i) Williams Lake Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2378, 2023"

ii) "City of Williams Lake Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2379, 2023"

for property at 575 Wotzke Drive

6) Council issued the following Proclamations:

i) Day of Mourning - April 28th, 2023

ii) "Hospice Palliative Care Awareness Month" - May 2023

7) At the request of Fibromyalgia Association Canada (FAC) in their letter dated April 11, 2023, Council agreed to Light Up City Hall Purple for Fibromyalgia Awareness Day on May 12, 2023

8) Council received the Council Information Package as of April 18th, 2023

Members of Council reported on their recent activities

Council adjourned at 9:32pm

Phase one of Williams Lake River Valley Reopening Set for May 1

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is thrilled to announce a portion of the River Valley Trail will reopen to the public on May 1, 2023.

The partial River Valley Trail reopening comes close to three years after catastrophic flooding destroyed natural areas and habitat, trails, roadways and City infrastructure, totalling multiple millions of dollars of damage and forcing the valley’s closure due to public safety concerns while repair and remediation work took place.

“I know I join all of our residents in celebrating this welcome news and I would like to thank the public for their continued patience, respect and understanding while the work has been ongoing,” Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said. “We’ve seen tremendous effort by City staff, local contractors, consultants and engineers in order to get our beautiful trail network in the River Valley up and running again.”

The Williams Lake River Valley Trail reopening will take place in phases as work continues in closed areas. This includes the completion of remaining bridges and use of heavy equipment in some sections.

The open portion of trail in phase one will be from the Comer Street entrance heading south toward the Tolko log yard. Phase two of the reopening is targeted for June of 2023, expanding the open section of road further north toward the Fraser River pending the completion of work in that section.

The City is asking the public to refer to map signage that will be posted at the Comer Street entrance for important safety information. The map is also available online at www.williamslake.ca/481/Williams-Lake-River-Valley-Trail.

The public is asked to only use the section of road that is open, respect existing worksites and signage, stay clear of construction traffic and avoid closed recreation features. Motorized vehicle access is also not permitted.

“While we’re excited to announce the partial River Valley Trail reopening we also want to stress that people must take care around construction traffic moving in and out of the entrance along the road,” City of Williams Lake Chief Administrative Officer Gary Muraca said.

“The public should also be aware there may be isolated active worksites existing within the opened areas and we ask users of the road to please use caution.”

Muraca added that the City is pleased to be able to reopen a valued part of the community’s trail network as we head into warmer weather.

50th Birthday of the Agriculture Land Reserve

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

“Fifty years ago, British Columbians had the vision to protect our province’s food security by establishing the Agricultural Land Reserve and it has never been more important than it is today. We depend on the ALR for the food on our tables and we depend on it to support farming families and businesses in communities all over our province.

“The ALR was formed in 1973 by people who saw the need and the value of preserving farmland for food production. That need hasn’t changed. Today’s farmers use the land differently than the generations before them did. They have technology at their fingertips and manage their farms from phones and fields. The importance of preserving farmland so future generations can enjoy fresh and local ingredients remains as true today as it was 50 years ago.

“That’s why our government will continue to work with farmers to support food production and protect the valuable agricultural land in the ALR. Farmers who work on the ALR provide healthy, local and sustainably grown food for British Columbians in every part of our province. The fact is if you’ve enjoyed B.C. fruits and vegetables, meat or dairy this year, chances are high it was produced in the ALR.

“The ALR is a key part of B.C.’s plan for a sustainable, local food system. On the ALR’s golden anniversary, I join British Columbians in celebrating the healthy, nutritious food the ALR has provided for plates all over our province and encourage all to ‘Buy BC’ to help build a strong and resilient food system in British Columbia. Happy 50th anniversary to the ALR!”

~ The Hon. Pam Alexis - BC's Minister of Agriculture/Food

City of Williams Lake works with multiple agencies to disperse homeless encampment

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

Today, in consultation with various social service and health care agencies, and with support from the Williams Lake RCMP, the City of Williams Lake peacefully dispersed a homeless encampment at Herb Gardner Park. The camp was established early last week and quickly grew considerably in size, attracting more occupants, debris and activity daily.

"While we recognize this is not a perfect solution, we look forward to working with all of the appropriate agencies to establish a long-term solution for this ongoing issue," City of Williams Lake Chief Administrative Officer Gary Muraca said, noting he hopes collaborative work between organizations can begin immediately. "Our decision to disperse the encampment isn't one we took lightly. We are offering support to the individuals involved and have offered to store any belongings for the short term."

Open drug use and discarded needles, consumption of alcohol, public nudity, violent activity, defecation as well as its proximity to the Glen Arbor seniors housing complex adjacent to Herb Gardner Park were all factors in considering the camp's removal. "Community safety is our biggest concern at the moment," Muraca said.

Daily wellness checks and agency supports were on site in the park since the camp’s initial set up. Currently, appropriate agencies are attempting to find shelter or housing spaces for the camp occupants.

“The City would like to thank the RCMP, Interior Health, the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and Canadian Mental Health Association Cariboo Chilcotin Branch for their ongoing commitment to addressing this serious issue,” Muraca said.

New investments from the Government of Canada support 45 local infrastructure projects across BC

Courtesy of the Union of BC Municipalities:

Editor's Note -- the City of Quesnel was the ONLY local government in the Cariboo-Chilcotin to receive funding in this latest round of funding from the Federal Government.  They are receiving $6 million for repairs to the Johnston Bridge in Quesnel

Today, Terry Beech, Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament for Burnaby North—Seymour, the Honourable Anne Kang, B.C. Minister of Municipal Affairs, and Councillor Jen Ford, President of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), announced a federal investment of more than $103.5 million to support 45 community infrastructure projects.   

In Colwood, funding will go towards building a multi-use waterfront pathway along the Esquimalt Lagoon. Work will include natural infrastructure to safeguard the peninsula from sea-level rise and the restoration of riparian vegetation in the salt marsh. This will improve local habitats, support biodiversity, stabilize soils, and filter pollutants. The work will guide visitors thoughtfully through sensitive areas while protecting and enhancing important natural resources. In addition to encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle for residents of all ages and abilities, this project will also support climate action and clean initiatives that strengthen the local economy and build a resilient community.  

Investments in Fraser Lake will help build new water lines along Carrier Crescent and Tunasa Drive. A new water line will provide a dedicated supply from the reservoir to improve safety of the community’s drinking water. As well, a new storm sewer will be installed to collect water from household sump pumps, and a new sidewalk will be constructed along Tunasa Drive. Once complete, the project will provide safe, clean water to the community for a healthier and better quality of life.  

Other projects to receive funding include new fire halls, water and wastewater treatment plant upgrades, airport expansions, and bridge and road upgrades.   Empowering communities to determine how best to direct funds enables them to plan strategically for their present and future needs and will help ensure British Columbia remains among the best places in the world to live, work, and raise a family.   

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.  

The Hon. Anne Kang - BC's Minister of Municipal Affairs stated:

"B.C. communities are expanding services to meet the needs of a growing population. The federal government is to be commended for the continuing renewal of local infrastructure through the Canada Community-Building Fund. This program has delivered over $4.6 billion to thousands of projects across B.C. like Colwood’s multi-use pathway.” 

While Jen Ford - the President of the Union of BC Municipalities also commented:

"This accessible multi-use pathway will allow visitors to enjoy the spectacular waterfront in Colwood, while protecting sensitive ecological and archaeological shoreline areas. The pathway will inspire people to get outdoors and active as they walk or cycle from Colwood’s town centre to the waterfront and beyond to the vibrant seaside village envisioned at Royal Beach.” 

Quick Facts:

• The Government of Canada is investing $103,565,997 in 45 projects across British Columbia.  

• The Government of Canada’s funding comes from the third application-based intake of the Strategic Priorities Fund stream of the Canada Community-Building Fund, formerly known as the federal Gas Tax Fund.   

• The Canada Community-Building Fund is a permanent source of funding provided twicea-year to provinces and territories, who in turn deliver this funding to local governments for local infrastructure priorities.  

• In B.C., the Canada Community-Building Fund is administered by UBCM. 

• The Canada Community-Building Fund delivers more than $2 billion every year to 3,600 communities across the country. In recent years the funding has supported approximately 4,000 projects each year.  

• The Canada Community-Building Fund has 19 project eligibility categories, including capacity building, sport infrastructure, and broadband connectivity.  • Infrastructure Canada, which distributes this funding, helps address complex challenges that Canadians face every day—ranging from the rapid growth of our cities, to climate change, and environmental threats to our water and land.  

The full list of successful applicants can be viewed here

Cariboo Memorial Hospital Update - April 14th, 2023

Courtesy of Interior Health:

Interior Health confirms physician coverage continues for all shifts for the Cariboo Memorial Hospital (CMH) inpatient medical unit with local and visiting physicians. Patients will be admitted to CMH unless their medical needs require transfer to a higher level of care.

Our priority is to maintain local access to hospital care. We are grateful for the amazing work of our local physicians, staff and leadership and their collective dedication to patients in the Cariboo. We also thank the physicians from other communities who are travelling to maintain key medical services in Williams Lake.

Physician staffing challenges remain and we still need additional physicians to stabilize services at CMH. Along with our current physicians, the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice and the Ministry of Health, we are committed to actively pursuing all avenues to bring additional physicians to Williams Lake.

It is important to stress that the emergency department at CMH is open for any patients who need emergency care.

 Interior Health will provide additional updates as more information is available.

New ER/ICU open at GR Baker Memorial Hospital

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People in the North Cariboo will have better access to health care at GR Baker Memorial Hospital as construction completes on a new emergency department and intensive care unit (ICU). 

The new addition was built on the territory of the Lhtako Dene Nation and opened on April 14, 2023. 

The provincial government invested $27 million in the project through Northern Health and the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District. 

“The redeveloped GR Baker Memorial Hospital will have more space and the latest technology, so people can get the care when they need it in a modern environment,” said the Hon. Adrian Dix, BC's Minister of Health. “The hospital has served the region well for more than 60 years and, with these upgrades, it will continue to offer high-quality care for decades to come.” 

 The new emergency department and ICU are bigger and are located together, making it easier for patients and staff to move around. The emergency department has a triage area, two exam rooms, a two-bay trauma and resuscitation room, an isolation and exam area, a psychiatric observation room, and an ambulance garage. The ICU has five treatment spaces, instead of the previous four, and there is also a private waiting area for families. 

 “This new emergency department and intensive care unit will help meet the needs of a growing region as more people look to access care close to home,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health. 

Colleen Nyce, board chair, Northern Health, said: “I am happy that the emergency room and ICU addition at GR Baker Memorial Hospital is now officially open to the public. This modern and highly improved addition will be a great benefit to patients, their families and especially our staff, who see measurable positive impacts to their workflow and efficiencies.” 

Mary Sjostrom -- Vice-Chair, Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District, said: “We appreciate all the partners working together to improve our emergency department and ICU facilities in the North Cariboo. We are a proud contributor to this project and celebrate the completion of the upgrades that will serve our growing community and region for years to come.” 

The provincial government and Northern Health worked collaboratively with neighbouring Indigenous communities in the planning process, including the Lhtako Dene Nation, Nazko First Nation, ?Esdilagh First Nation and Lhoosk’uz Dene First Nation, recognizing the history and cultural significance of the area. 

In recognition of the territory of the Lhtako Dene Nation and the languages used in the region, the new emergency department and ICU have a companion name: Dune Soonunakehududzuk Deni Belh ?Ats’enanx The People are Healing The first line is Carrier (Dakelh) language, and the second line is Chilcotin language. The City of Quesnel was also an instrumental partner in bringing the project to completion, contributing by supporting traffic flow, control and alternate parking options around the project. 

 Opened in 1955, GR Baker Memorial Hospital currently operates 44 inpatient beds and also provides emergency care, lab services, diagnostic imaging, mental-health and addictions supports, and chronic disease management.